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True Religion Hand Picked Legging Big T Women’s Jean

A few days ago I was browsing the True Religion Web site. Right away a style of jeans caught my eye — the Hand Picked Legging Big T style. I was immediately attracted to the design on the back — I always liked the Big T style of seat pockets, especially with the button flap.

Tr4ueReligionHandPickedLeggingBigTWomensJeans

It took me only about a minute to decide that I wanted a pair! I put a pair into my Shopping Cart, and a few minutes later I had two additional pairs of True Religion jeans, but that’s another story.

TrueReligionCropped

It took about four days for my Big T jeans to arrive. I opened the package and tried them on instantly. I was very happy because they fit me perfectly!

I don’t want to sound too snobby but I feel lucky that I’m able to wear this style of jeans. Not every woman can. Because of the size and design of the rear seat pocket, if you’re too skinny (not me!) or have a full figure, these jeans just won’t work. And the stitching in three colors — light yellow, dark yellow, and orange, which contrasts with the blue of the denim, is a bit bold.

I’m very happy with my new pair of True Religion Hand Picked Legging Big T Women’s Jeans, and think they’ll pair nicely with a pointed-toe pump for a weekday or weekend night out. The color of shoe will depend on the top.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Jayden Sheer-Underlay Suspender-Strap Dress

I’ve always liked Marc by Marc Jacobs but recently I’ve been even more into his collection than usual. A good example is the Jayden Sheer-Underlay Suspender-Strap Dress I recently bought. At first, I wasn’t sure that I liked the style. The sheer part of the top was a bit bold for my taste. But after a few days, I took another look and decided I’d take a chance. One of my friends echoed what I was thinking — the dress had to be a perfect fit in order for it to look nice. Otherwise, the dress could end up looking very awkward.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Jayden Sheer-Underlay Suspender-Strap Dress

Anyway, when the sheer dress arrived, I was a bit hesitant to try it on. I was worried that, because the dress is backless, I wouldn’t be able to wear a bra with it. That’s always a hit-or-miss proposition. But when I tried the dress on, I was pleased with the look and how it fit me.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Jayden Sheer-Underlay Suspender-Strap Dress

I think there are two likely scenarios for wearing this dress. First, I can see myself wearing the dress to work, with a sweater or other light wrap or cover. Second, I can see myself wearing this dress to a semi-casual event like an after-work Happy Hour.

Anyway, I’m glad I took a chance on the Marc by Marc Jacobs Jayden Sheer-Underlay Suspender-Strap Dress . It’s a tiny bit daring for my relatively conservative tastes, but in this case the style works. The moral is, don’t be afraid to take a style chance every now and then.

My Saint Laurent Glitter Mary Jane Pump

A few months ago, I first saw the Saint Laurent Glitter Mary Jane Pump. I really liked them a lot, but I didn’t buy them right away. However I gave in quickly, and bought a pair from the Saks Web site!

MaryJaneGlitterShoe

I tried the pumps both with and without tights. On some models, the Glitter Pumps look great without anything on their legs, but for me, I much prefer wearing them with black tights.

I think these pumps have a very happy feel to them. I can see myself wearing them on days when I want to dress up a bit, but don’t feel like wearing my stiletto heels. Sadly, these Saint Laurent Glitter Mary Jane Pumps are sold out, but I love my pair and will keep my eyes open for similar shoes!

The Yumi Crepe Dropped-Waist Dress by Marc by Marc Jacobs

Have you ever tried to explain a dress to a guy, and he just didn’t really understand? Some dresses are just hard to explain. The Yumi Crepe Dropped-Waist Dress by Marc by Marc Jacobs is one of these.

DroppedWasitDressModel

I first saw the Yumi dress about three months ago, and it immediately caught my attention. Finally, I couldn’t resist it anymore, and so I bought it. The first thing that I noticed was that the model wore the dress with a plaid shirt. I think the shirt looks great on the model, but for me, I prefer wearing the dress without a shirt or layer underneath. I like wearing the Yumi dress with a long-waisted cashmere sweater.

DroppedWaistDressShirleyCropped

The dress is pleated, which gives it a distinctive look. The pleats remind me in some way of the school uniform dresses I wore when I was young. The overall effect of the dress is a bit girly, but sophisticated.

A friend asked me about where I’d wear this dress and where I wouldn’t. I answered that, in my opinion, the dress is perfectly suited for work in a business casual environment (like where I work now) or maybe a Happy Hour after work. I don’t think I’d wear this dress to a weekend event, but I can see other people doing so.

Appropriate shoes are an interesting question too. Today, as I write this post, I’m wearing almond-shaped-toe black flats with kitten heels. The model in these pictures is wearing booties with straps, which I think is another good match. I wouldn’t wear this dress with sandals or tall boots, but again, those options might look good on you.

The neckline is V-cut which makes it perfect for a short chain and pendant, if you’re not wearing a shirt. There are many V-neck black dress designs, but the Yumi Crepe Dropped-Waist Dress by Marc by Marc Jacobs is one you should check out!

Alice + Olivia “Love is in the Air” Shift Dress

The Alice + Olivia brand is one of my favorites when I’m looking for a holiday or special event dress. Alice + Olivia was created in 2002 and is based in New York. The head designer is Stacey Bendet.

My impression of the Alice + Olivia line is somewhat mixed — their designs are stylish and contemporary, but also feature items that I’d describe as cute and girly.

Recently, I came across the A + O “Love is in the Air” shift dress. My initial reaction was that the dress is very cute and happy, and that it’d be perfect for a sunny day. When I first came across the dress at the Nordstorm Web site, I really wanted to buy it because I was just getting ready to take a trip to California to visit family. But I thought the Love-is-in-the-Air shift dress was just a bit too expensive ($550.00) for a piece of clothing I’d probably only wear once.

Alice + Olivia Love Is In The Air Shift Dress

But, I still really like that dress! After initially passing on buying the dress, I’m thinking I’ll wait and hope the dress goes on sale — I am planning to take a trip to Europe (Spain and southern France in particular) and this dress would be absolutely perfect!

So, the “Love is in the Air” shift dress by Alice + Olivia isn’t right for everyone (of course, no dress is!) but I think it’s a great dress that makes a “happy” statement. Check it out!

My Winter Outfit for Whistler, Canada

I decided to take an unplanned trip from Seattle (where I live) to Whistler, Canada. Whistler is an upscale ski resort located about a four-hour drive due north of Seattle. Just before Thanksgiving, one of my girlfriends and I had dinner together. On the spur of the moment, I asked her what she was doing on the weekend following Thanksgiving. She said she had no plans so we decided to go to Whistler, in part because my friend had never been there before.

We drove from Seattle to Whistler on Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. After we got into Canada, we stopped for a late lunch in Vancouver, Canada (just above the Washington-Canada border). After lunch, we decided that rather than spend the day in Vancouver, which although is a very nice city, is one we’ve both been to many times, we’d continue on to Whistler.

We arrived in Whistler about 8:00 in the evening. Expecting this scenario, I had made a hotel reservation at the Fairmont. We checked in and then ate dinner at the very fancy Bearfoot Bistro restaurant in the Whistler Villager.

Fast forward to Sunday at Whistler. I hadn’t planned on any activities in particular. But my friend and I decided to take the peak-to-peak gondola ride from Whistler to the neighboring Blackcomb ski resort area. For the trip I wore True Religion skinny jeans with crystal accents, a J.Crew pink cashmere sweater, a pair of UGG short boots, a knitted hat and a pair of Lululemon gloves that I bought in Whistler, and an Eddie Bauer jacket.

I brought my latest Lois Vuitton Alma red bag with me, mostly because I had already checked out from the hotel and didn’t want to leave it at the Bell Desk. That was not necessarily a great idea, but it turned out well because I was able to store all my accessories when they weren’t needed.

MyWinterOutfitForWhistler_Canada_1

Even though I hadn’t planned much, I was very happy with the way everything turned out!

MyWinterOutfitForWhistler_Canada_2

The New Upscale “Starbucks Reserve” Cafe in Seattle

I live in the Seattle, Washington area. Seattle is home to several large companies, including Starbucks. Starbucks is constantly trying new products and new approaches. This weekend (as I write this post), Starbucks debuted a new upscale cafe called Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room in downtown Seattle (the Capitol Hill area), not far from their original cafe.

StarbucksReserveExterior2

On their first Sunday, I decided to visit. I went there about 3:00 in the afternoon. Parking anywhere near downtown Seattle is always a mess, but I was able to find a lot with an open stall not too far away.

The place was packed and there was a line out the door. Fortunately, I didn’t have to wait too long and got inside soon. Once inside, I found myself in a waiting foyer area. A host explained the history of the building and the layout of the store. I waited in the foyer only a few minutes. Then I was allowed to enter the actual cafe. Inside, I first walked around a bit and checked out their merchandise; many items are available only at this one store.

StarbucksReserveMerchandise
Starbucks Reserve Merchandise

Next, I looked at the roasting area, where coffee beans are actually roasted. Then I got in line to order some coffee and pastries. Many of the drinks are unique to this store. I ordered an unusual iced coffee drink. It wasn’t bad, but I don’t think I’d order it again. Instead, I’ll probably order a standard coffee item.

I also ordered a potato scone and a macaroon cookie to eat. After ordering, I found a seat. My drink and food order was delivered to me. I was a bit surprised that they found me — I’m not sure how they did that.

StarbucksReserveFood
Starbucks Reserve Drinks and Pastry

My bottom line is that the new Starbucks Reserve is a great place for friends to meet and get together. My guess is that the “Reserve” concept will be a success and you might see these establishments where live, in the no-too-distant future.

Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2014

The winter holidays are a time for all kinds of parties. Everyone wants to look their best, so holiday dresses are an important part of the season. Here are my top ten holiday dresses for winter 2014.


Alice + Olivia – Kimber Embellished Dress – $595 via Nordstrom

Alice + Olivia always has some great dresses for party. I like it’s Kimber Embellished dress in pink. The stretchy mesh material on this dress adds some sexiness to the look.

Alice + Olivia Kimber Embellished Dress


Alice + Olivia Zilla Leather-Trim Dress – $698 via Saks.com
A black dress with scoopneck top and flared skirt might be a common design, but this Alice + Olivia Zilla Leather-trim dress is no ordinary silhouette. The contrast materials (leather and nylon/spandex) make the swingy design stand out, and leather trim makes this dress perfect for parties or a night out in Winter.
Alice + Olivia Zilla LeaterTrim Dress


BCBG Maia Jeweled Illusion Dress – $398 via Saks.com

Red dresses are the must-have for holiday parties. The jeweled neckline on the dress complement the red dress well. And the tulip hem of the dress shows off the legs and make them appear long and lean.

BCBG Maia Jeweled Illusion Dress


Carmen Marc Valvo Embellished-Neck Halter Dress – $595 via Saks.com
I am a big fan of halter top dresses that show off the shoulder area. This Carmen Marc Volvo’s black dress with embellished neck is perfect for parties. The dress is also available in red and ivory.

Carmen Marc Valvo Embellished-Neck Halter Dress


Diane von Furstenberg Zarita Lace Dress – $348 via Saks
I like dresses made of lace and love cobalt blue. The two elements combined in this silhouette really stands out in the crowd.
Diane von Furstenbger Zarita Lace Dress


Donna Karan Long Sleeve Boatneck Collage Dress – $2,195 via Donna Karan
This Donna Karan red long sleeve boatneck collage dress is ideal for more mature women for a business holiday party. The unique cut-out with the red mesh insert adds some sophistication to the silhouette.

Donna Karan Long Sleeve Boatneck Collage Dress


ERIN erin fetherston Dolly Lace & Metallic Pique Fit & Flare Dress – $355 via Nordstrom

In my opinion, this dress seems a bit conservative compared to most party dresses, but it’s elegant and classic. It might be right for you!

ERIN erin fetherston Dolly Lace Metallic Pique Fit & Flare Dress


Marc Jacobs Sequined Eyelet Shift Dress – $3,200 via Saks
This Marc Jacobs shift dress is covered in purple sequins with a jeweled neckline. This is perfect for holiday parties and special occasions.
Marc Jacobs Sequined Eyelet Shift Dress


Parker Kenzie Sequined Body-Con Dress – $396 via Saks.

I like the black and blue sequins on this dress. The dress also has a deep scoop back, which adds some sexiness to your look.

Parker Kenzie Sequined Body Con Dress


Shoshanna Cindy Flared Lace Dress – $385 via Saks
I like the scalloped edge and the flared design on this dress. The green color reminds me of the holidays!

Shoshanna Cindy Flared Lace Dress


The Marc by Marc Jacobs Layered-Effect Plaid-Skirt Dress

I was browsing dresses from Marc by Marc Jacobs and came across a dress hat instantly caught my attention. I absolutely love the combination of the black top with red plaid. At first glance, the dress looks like two separate pieces — a plaid skirt with a black sweater-like top. But, in fact, it’s one dress with two layers.

I love the plaid look for the winter holiday season, especially the black and red color combination. I can see myself wearing this outfit to work, or on a Friday casual outing with friends.

So, I bought the dress!

The material is not too heavy, but it keeps me warm. In other words, it’s a perfect cold weather dress. The back of the top part the dress has a very interesting design. On the back, the top part of the dress is split, with a hook on the top and a nice ribbon. The ribbon can be tied in creative ways, especially when wearing your hair up.

I intend to pair this cool dress with black tights (just like the photo here), and a new pair of Frye’s booties in black. The layer-effect plaid-skirt dress from Marc by Marc Jacobs may not be perfect for everyone, but you should give it a look!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Toto Plaid Crepe Dress – on sale $358.95 (originally $598) via Nordstrom

Marc by Marc Jacobs Toto Plaid Crepe Dress

2014 Winter Holiday Meals

For the 2014 Thanksgiving holiday, I decided to cook a homemade meal (well, almost entirely homemade). I somewhat cheated on the turkey by buying a pre-cooked turkey breast with stuffing. But I made almost everything else from scratch.

For mashed potatoes, I got a recipe from Williams-Sonoma, online. I bought raw potatoes from the supermarket. The recipe called for sour cream instead of milk, spices, and butter. The mashed potatoes turned out really well; exactly the way I hoped.

Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Homemade Mashed Potatoes

In addition to mashed potatoes, I baked sweet potatoes. I like diced mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallows and brown sugar, but this year I aimed for a little bit healthier option.

Cranberry sauce is one of my must-haves for Thanksgiving. I usually buy canned cranberry sauce (but not the jellied type), which I like, but this year I made cranberry sauce from scratch. I used a recipe for “cranberry chutney”, from Williams-Sonoma. I boiled raw cranberries, added sugar and water and orange juice, and a cinnamon stick, with orange and lemon zest. The recipe called for port wine, but I left that out. The result was super good!

Homemade Cranberry Chutney with Lemon & Orange Zest
Homemade Cranberry Chutney with Lemon & Orange Zest

Now, I’m mildly embarrassed to admit that I heated up canned corn and added lots of butter. Canned corn is a guilty pleasure for me, and to be honest, I prefer good canned corn to fresh!

For green vegetables, I did not go with the traditional American green bean casserole. Instead I made a classic asparagus side dish.

All things considered, I think my 2014 Thanksgiving meal was a great success. I intend to follow up with a homemade Christmas meal!

Corn and Asparagus
Corn and Asparagus